When a new battery is inserted into a PowerBook 500 series computer, it could take up to 30 minutes (or longer in rare cases) for the battery to be recognized and start to charge. The delay is a result of communication that occurs between the battery and PowerBook. The power circuitry is set up to poll the battery at specified intervals, rather than to communicate immediately after a battery has been inserted.
This problem has been resolved with the Intelligent Battery Recognition software. This software consists of a system extension and an application which updates the software that is contained on a chip inside the PowerBook 500 series battery. A separate article in the Tech Info Library documents this software, its title is "PB 500 Series: Intelligent Battery Recondition Software (2/95)"
These articles can help you locate the software mentioned here:
* "Where To Find Apple Software Updates"
Lists online services for "free" Apple software updates.
* "Obtaining Apple Product Support in the USA"
Lists 800 numbers and online services for software updates, Apple
support information, and a subset of the Apple Tech. Info. Library.
Article Change History:
17 Feb 1995 - Updated resolution to problem.
04 Nov 1994 - Added information about AC Power Adapter.
24 Aug 1994 - New workaround information added.
Support Information Services